The "Smoke and Vape Free Campus" policy was approved by the University of Limerick Governing Authority on the 17th May 2018. It outlines "smoking and vaping will be prohibited on all University campuses from 1st June 2018".

This policy to date has failed in eradicating smoking on campus as students, staff and visitors continue to do so, only without the facility to safely and cleanly dispose of cigarette butts. The result of this is the blighting of the campus with rubbish previously deposited in ashbins, which have since been removed from the entrances of the library and associated buildings in an effort to dissuade people from smoking.

To leave campus in order to smoke is unfeasible for students who may live, learn and socialise on campus, as well as staff. Forbidding smoking on campus does little to curb the urge to smoke, but rather ostracises smokers from the rest of the student body. While there is no ambiguity about the harmful effects of smoking, it is remiss of the university leadership to think that a blanket ban of smoking on campus is an effective way to help people quit.

For the reasons outlined above, it is my suggestion that the university install designated smoking areas in the vicinity of the library and main university buildings, wherein ashbins would be provided for the clean disposal of smoking waste. The policy is due to be reviewed one year after implementation, but given the fact that this is one academic year away, I feel as though this date should be brought forward.

Thank you for taking the time to read my argument, and please sign the petition